Hybrid power for Semporna islanders
Published on: Sunday, September 08, 2024
Madius inspecting the solar panel.
SEMPORNA: Residents of Pulau Omadal now enjoy stable electricity supply through the Hybrid Solar Station (SSH) —- thanks to Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd. (SESB).
Village head, Nattang @ Ahmad Jais Satari, 65, said SESB had been instrumental in the SSH operation.
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“Before the solar system was installed, residents relied on generators, which involved high diesel fuel costs and were a burden on the village.
“However, with the SSH, the cost of electricity through SESB is much cheaper compared to using generators,”Nattang said during a site visit by SESB to review the SSH.
The visit was led by SESB Chairman Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau, and also attended by SESB Chief Executive Officer Ir. Ts. Mohd. Yaakob Hj. Jaafar and other senior SESB officials.
Nattang said the SSH had significantly improved the living standards of the local residents.
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“With a stable electricity supply, our children can study at night, and small businesses can operate smoothly.
Nattang (left), Boneka (right)
“If there are any disruptions or technical issues, SESB responds promptly to our complaints.
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“I am also deeply touched and grateful to Datuk Seri Madius for personally visiting and assessing our solar system here,” he said.
Meanwhile, Pulau Omadal Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) member, Boneka Halail, 52 also thanked the government’s and SESB’s initiative in providing electrical amenities to the island’s residents despite its remote location.
“We are very thankful to the government and SESB because, with the SSH, we no longer have to worry about our electricity supply, even though the island is still not connected to the main grid,” he said.
Earlier, Madius said the SSH combined solar panel technology, batteries, and engines to replace traditional generators.
“Previously, villagers had to rely on generators, candles, or lamps for electricity, which was very limited due to high fuel costs.
“With the SSH, I am confident that the residents’ lives have become more comfortable and stable, and they can now enjoy a continuous electricity supply,” he said.
The SSH project is part of the Ministry of Rural Development (KPLB) under the Rural Electricity Supply (BELB) programme and is currently managed by SESB to ensure a continuous and quality electricity supply for rural communities.
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